Reviewed by ShermansTravel Staff on 12/22/2008
Book By: ASAP
Travel By: Select sailings in April 2009
Lengthy cruises to sunny locales at up to 71% off
Although it’s not officially winter yet, chances are that you’ll be hankering for a sun-filled getaway once the frosty season comes to a close. Happily, we’ve dug up some exotic 10- to 18-night itineraries in April that promises a rejuvenating – and lengthy – getaway to revive the senses, at rates far below what land-based vacations demand. Cruises for those that plan now can be snagged at rates from just $569 – or as little as $33 per night – for sailings to South America, Bermuda, and beyond.
71% off: 18-night Latin America cruise from Chile to LA
The Norwegian Sun leaves April 12 from Valparaíso, Chile on an 18-night quest along the western coast of South America. The first port of call is Coquimbo, in Chile, where the famous Cross of the Third Millennium overlooks the city from the mountaintop. Next up is Iquique, the capital of the northern region, followed by Arica, the duty-free port that is ideal for picking up some authentic souvenirs and Chilean wine. Next enjoy a full day at sea before paying a visit to Callao (Lima), Peru. Lima is home to several intriguing museums and historical sites like the Gold Museum (which displays Incan relics), the Church of San Francisco (which sits atop a maze of catacombs), and the temple of Pachacamac. The next destination is Salaverry, Peru, a city full of pastel-colored mansions and ancient ruins like Chan Chan, a city made entirely from mud. Savaverry is the last port city in South America – from here on out the cruise visits Costa Rica and Mexico, including a two-day stay in Acapulco before reaching its final destination of Los Angeles. Rates start at $569 for interior cabins, which breaks down to just $33 a night.
Getting There:
Check out LAN’s South America flight sale for your one-way fares to Chile.
$664+: 10-night Baja Mexico voyage on Holland America
While most Baja Mexico cruises follow a typical three-port route, this 10-day odyssey visits no less than six exotic ports. Holland Americas’ ms Ryndam sets sail on April 14, making its first stop in Puerto Vallarta, the small city whose charm spills out onto the red tiled roofs and cobblestone streets. Next, the ship heads to Mazatlan, a prime spot for snorkeling, dolphin, and whale watching. Next up is Topolobampo, the ultimate relaxation location thanks to its splendid beaches and sandbars that stretch across the bay. The ship then sails to Loreto, the site of the oldest human settlement in Baja California, where you can spend time kayaking, snorkeling, and horseback riding before continuing on to La Paz and Cabo San Lucas. Prices for this voyage start at $664 for interior cabins.
$599+: Unique Norwegian sail to Belize, Caribbean, Bermuda & more
This 10-night cruise on the Norwegian Spirit serves up a healthy dose of Caribbean port stops, with a quick visit to Bermuda, to boot. The ship sails from New Orleans on April 19 and makes its first stop in Costa Maya , Mexico the newest port on the Western Caribbean itineraries specifically designed for cruise passengers. Next, continue on to Santo Tomas De Castilla, Guatemala, followed by Belize City, the home of the second largest coral reef system in the world. From there its two days spent at sea before arriving in Willemstad in Curacao. Be sure to check out the Museum Kura Hulanda which showcases African exhibits, before cruising to Hamilton, Bermuda. The point of disembarkation on this voyage is Boston. Interior cabin rates start at $599, a 60 percent savings off of rack rates.
Cruise the Panama Canal on luxe Celebrity from $799
Let’s face it – there is something intriguing about the Panama Canal. After several hundred years in the making, passengers can now sail through the waterway in style, starting from just $799 for interior cabins. The Celebrity Mercury leaves Fort Lauderdale April 13, and spends two days sailing the Caribbean waters before reaching its first port of call in Cartagena, Colombia. Unwind on a pristine beach, or explore ancient fortresses before cruising the 50 mile span through the celebrated Panama Canal. The next port of call is in the tropical paradise of Puntarenas, Costa Rica, marked by rainforests, coffee plantations, and irresistible beachfront cafes. The ship then sails onward to Mexico, with three final stops in Huatulco, Acapulco, and Cabo San Lucas – perfect for water sports and a little beach-bumming to finish up this 14-night adventure.
All prices are per person and based on double occupancy. Accommodations, meals, some beverages, entertainment and port charges are covered in the cost. Government fees and taxes as well as off-boat expenditures are extra.
You’ve got the long winter months to tough out before April.
For the 18-night cruise from Chile visit: www.cruise.com
For the 10-night Baja Mexico cruise visit: www.cruise.com
For the Norwegian cruise to Bermuda visit www.orbitz.com
For the Panama Canal cruise visit www.travelocity.com
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